Zucchini boats are one of those genius recipes that feel light and comforting all at once — and when you make them in the crockpot? Even better.

These Crockpot Italian Zucchini Boats are stuffed with a rich, savory meat sauce and topped with gooey melted cheese. They’re low-carb, gluten-free, and the perfect way to sneak in veggies while still feeling like you’re eating something indulgent.

Whether you serve them as a weeknight dinner or a meal prep lunch, they’re simple, customizable, and totally delicious.

Ingredients (serves 4–6):

• 4 medium zucchinis

• 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage

• 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)

• 1/2 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp pepper

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Optional: chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the zucchinis: Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the center with a spoon to create boats. Lightly salt the inside and set aside.

2. Cook the filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground meat with onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.

3. Fill the boats: Spoon the meat mixture into each zucchini half, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

4. Arrange in crockpot: Carefully place zucchini boats in the slow cooker (layer slightly if needed).

5. Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until zucchini is tender but not mushy and cheese is melted.

6. Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and enjoy warm!

Sarah’s Tips & Swaps:

• Make it vegetarian: Swap ground beef for cooked lentils or crumbled tofu.

• Extra saucy? Add 1/2 cup marinara to the bottom of the slow cooker.

• Cheese swap: Try Italian blend, provolone, or a dairy-free alternative.

• Meal prep tip: These reheat well in the oven or microwave for an easy grab-and-go lunch.

Flavorful Conclusion:

These Italian zucchini boats are the perfect combination of cozy and clean — all the flavor of a lasagna or baked pasta dish, without the carbs or heavy feeling. With the crockpot doing the work, it’s a dinner win all around.

Nutrition (Per Serving – makes 6):

• Calories: 310

• Protein: 24g

• Carbohydrates: 10g

• Fat: 20g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 5g

• Sodium: 490mg